Respite Care Gives Caregivers a Break

Because most cancer treatment is done on an outpatient basis, a patient’s spouse, partner or other loved one becomes a caregiver, out of both necessity and love for their patient.

Being a caregiver is hard work and can be very stressful, though. Because they are focused on meeting the needs of their patient, caregivers often ignore their own physical, psychological and emotional needs. Depression and feelings of hopelessness are common among caregivers.

A Seminars in Oncology Nursing study concluded that “because caregiving is inherently stressful, caregivers should be routinely included in the assessment and treatment of patients with cancer.”

Respite care provides a short break, so caregivers can work, run errands, spend time with friends or simply relax and recharge for a few hours. L5 Foundation, in partnership with Quality Private Duty Care, offers the Restful Respite program, where qualified sitters provide non-medical care for cancer patients for a few hours at a time.